Support and involvement with our Wellbeing Hub provided a positive turning point
Mike first came to Action Homeless several years ago after a period of rough sleeping. He then had some time away from our services, and when he returned, he was moved into our medium support temporary accommodation. Mike has had periods of very low mental health after experiencing abuse and exploitation in the past. He has struggled with relationships, as he has a very trusting nature and had occasionally been involved with the wrong people. However, he said that he always tries to see the positive.
When Mike moved into our medium support temporary accommodation, he was signposted to the relevant mental health services, as well as support from partner organisations such as Turning Point. His support worker ensured he was able to have the right conversations regarding his future and what he would like to be doing, and how Action Homeless could help him achieve these goals.
When Mike returned from a short time away from our services, he visited our Community Lounge located at our Engage Wellbeing Hub, where he was able to access additional support. This ranged from help with applying for more permanent housing, having conversations regarding his mental health, accessing our Hygiene Pantry for essentials, and staying social.
Mike has been a big part of getting involved with the ongoing refurbishment of the outdoor garden area at our Wellbeing Hub. He participated in a lot of the initial planting and looking after the new plants, as well as sharing his ideas and plans for the garden. He also attended some of the activities that are held at the lounge, such as quiz sessions and football screenings during the Euros. These have helped build his confidence and made him feel involved in something.
After receiving dedicated and tailored support from Action Homeless Mike has found his mental health to be more balanced, and has now moved on to more permanent accommodation.
He says that he felt more confident to be able to move on this time because he knows where to seek support if needed, and he is also able to return to the Wellbeing Hub if needed. Mike would like to get back to work, ideally in a job that involves being outdoors. However, before he does, he would like to do some volunteering. He would like to volunteer with Action Homeless in the future to give back for all the help he received.